This poster takes aim at the contradiction between the traditional, macho American self-image and the reality of the AIDS crisis. By hijacking the Marlboro Man—a symbol of rugged individualism—the composition challenges the myth of national strength in the face of widespread government negligence. A layer of irony was added by the growing recognition of the public health threat posed by cigarettes, positioning President H. W. Bush as the public health threat in the context of AIDS. Released shortly after Bush’s first year in office (after he had served as vice president under Reagan), this poster voiced ACT UP’s frustration with a president who offered rhetorical support but no meaningful funding.